New Zealand longfin eel, Anguilla dieffenbachii, Lake Matheson

Description: The longfin eel is endemic to New Zealand. These eels are generally long-lived and breed only once before they die. Growth rates are highly variable, with female longfin eels commonly migrating to their spawning grounds at ages ranging from 27−61 years. When they reach maturity, longfin eels swim out to sea and then travel to their spawning grounds, thought to be somewhere east of Tonga. Dams and other barriers can stop these migrating eels from reaching the sea and their spawning grounds. The New Zealand longfin eel is an iconic species and is highly valued for recreational and cultural purposes. There is also a commercial fishery for these eels. Maori hold a significant interest in both commercial and non-commercial uses of the species. The New Zealand Longfinn eel is classified as a threatened species in gradual decline by the Department of Conservation.